11 Plus Comprehension Tips

Nathania

Medical Student

Preparing for the 11 Plus Exam can be daunting as a child and as a parent. Below are 8 tips on how to tackle the 11+ successfully.

1. Research your target schools

Consider what school would be best for your child and what you would like to aim for. There are different factors that you want to take into account such as traveling distance and different activities that the school can offer your child. Also, take note of the level of support that’s available for your child. Visiting the schools on open days is a great way to get your child excited about the school. They will be more willing to put in the work to get into their school if they know what they can look forward to.

2. Create a plan

Have a set plan and stick to it. This can be buying 11 plus books and practicing an hour every day or alternatively you may feel having a tutor would be a better choice. How you feel is best to prepare your child for 11 plus is down to you, however in order for your child to have a routine and structure, it’s best to stick to a set method.

3. Start preparing at the right time for the 11+

It can be difficult knowing when to start preparing for the 11 plus. However, you do want to avoid starting too early because you don’t want your child to peak too fast. It can usually be enough to start preparing from the beginning of Year 5. When to start preparing ultimately depends on your child’s ability and how fast they learn.

4. Figure out what works best for your child

Every child learns differently, and you know how your child works best. You may find that your child prefers working for the 11+ on Saturday morning so they know they have the rest of the day free. Perhaps they like working straight the school when they still are in a learning mode. Try to work with your child and discuss with them what they think works for them. This way you won’t have to force your child to work.

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5. Use breaks and rewards

Children don’t have the longest attention spans. You want to take this into account when planning their 11+ preparation. For example, agreeing with your child to do one hour of maths in the morning, then having a break before doing 30 minutes of English practice. Having set breaks built into the schedule helps keep the child focused as they know they will soon be having a break. It also gives their minds time to absorb the information that they have learned. Try giving rewards when your child manages to tackle something they find particularly difficult or at the end of every week. This helps to keep them motivated and enthusiastic about learning.

6. Focus on key Maths and English skills

Firstly you should focus on Maths and English skills, as these are important for the 11 plus but also for your child’s general education. Ensuring that your child knows their timetables very well is a key skill that will help them in mathematics and will help them be faster during the math section. Also, encourage your child to read more to help expand their vocabulary. Consider asking your child to read for 30 minutes before bed every day to help increase their vocabulary.

7. Practice 11+ past papers

11 plus practice papers are a key learning resource as this is the closest example to the real exam that your child will have. Therefore it’s very important to practice past papers, especially in timed conditions. The 11 plus exams may be the first time your child has sat formal exams so you want to mimic these conditions at home. Give them a room by themselves with no noise so they get used to this environment. Don’t waste practice papers by starting them when your child hasn’t learned the material first. Ensure that your child is comfortable with the 11+ material before attempting past papers.

8. Be supportive

Preparing for the 11+ can be stressful for both you and your child. It’s good to encourage a strong work ethic and high standards in children but you don’t want your child to be overwhelmed with pressure, as this will impact their performance. Always be supportive and encouraging so your child feels that they are able to speak up if they are struggling with any aspect of the 11 plus and it helps make the preparation more enjoyable for your child.

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